So, We have two kids and The median home value here is around $330,900, which seems about average. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. What would you do?
29 upvotes
16 Replies
Joshua Gonzalez
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a pharmacist who relocated here from Tampa about 7 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Good internet infrastructure
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Winters are long and cold
Financially, we've found it solid compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are wild, gas is solid.
Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Feel free to reach out with questions..
34 upvotes
Amelia Brown
facts
27 upvotes
Bella Rogers
Used to live on the Pine Hills side, now on the Riverside side. Completely different vibe. I have mixed feelings honestly.
27 upvotes
Alexander Mitchell
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is housing market. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Worth doing your research before committing.
26 upvotes
Sadie W.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem underrated.
I've been here 1 years and the quality of life is solid. The thing nobody mentions is school system. It's developing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the healthcare is legit. And if you're into biking, this place is excellent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The East side vs the The Heights side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Hope this helps!.
23 upvotes
Emilia H.
as a local I can confirm
21 upvotes
Henry Cox
Came here for retirement and stayed because I love the pace of life here. The pet-friendliness is honestly pretty good and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
20 upvotes
oakland_luke
I work in tech here and I genuinely enjoy living here. The job market for my field is decent. Feel free to reach out with questions..
17 upvotes
Lucas Wright
I've been living here for 13 years and I'd say it was the best decision I ever made. The food scene is hit or miss compared to other places I've lived. Overall Feel free to reach out with questions..
16 upvotes
real_everett35
100%
15 upvotes
Jacqueline R.
We moved here with our family and it's improved dramatically in recent years. Schools in Lakewood area are tough. Kids love it here.
12 upvotes
Skylar Williams
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a data analyst who relocated here from Minneapolis about 1 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Decent public transit for the size
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Limited shopping options
Financially, we've found it surprisingly good compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are pricey, gas is decent.
Socially, it exceeded my expectations. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
12 upvotes
Ian
yeah no that's not right
7 upvotes
Sophia H.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a social worker who relocated here from LA about 11 years ago. The main reasons were work and school.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good internet infrastructure
- Good airport with direct flights
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Financially, we've found it tough compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are competitive, gas is solid.
Socially, I'm still on the fence after all this time. No regrets on my end..
5 upvotes
Aurora M.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a nurse, 54, moved here 15 years ago from Tampa. I've lived in Westside and Cedar Grove, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Decent public transit for the size
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Limited public transit options
3. The traffic situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Westside: Great for families. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- Cedar Grove: More affordable, family-friendly.
**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.
**Cost comparison:**
Coming from Tampa, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $90K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.
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